Sunday, March 8, 2015

Week 8: Two Critiques of Memoirs

Critique on A
Vacation to Panama City Beach-

What initially drew me to read this memoir was the title. I
love traveling and reading about unfamiliar places. I have recently been hearing
many positive things about this area, so I might just have to go one of these
days!

After reading the memoir, I walk away leaning two life
lessons: the importance of trying new things and enjoying life, and that
sometimes, it’s ok to take a break and recharge.

What makes this memoir successful is that it is relatable.
Whether an introvert or an extrovert, there comes a time in everyone’s life
when they are faced with a new situation, whether that be moving out of your
parent’s home in pursuit to start your own life, applying to jobs, your first
time getting on a plane, your first kiss, the first day of classes, etc. What’s
important is that we view these new experiences as opportunities to learn
something about ourselves and the beautiful
gift called life that we are blessed with. In regards to being stressed
and needing to take a break, I can personally relate to this idea. A people
pleaser, I oftentimes try to take on more than I can handle: babysitting jobs,
my professional career, hanging out with friends, doing things with family, all
while trying to get my studies accomplished. Believe me when I say I know the
feeling of being overwhelmed. That’s when I have to remind myself to take a
deep breath, prioritize, go for a run, just
to take my mind away from it all.

Through vivid descriptions, the author brings us into Panama
City Beach with her. It’s as if I've been there, without the tan to prove it J

Possibly the one critique that I have about the piece is
that it is repetitive. In paragraphs three, five and six, the author describes,
more or less, the same scenery of the blue, sparkling water, the fish biting
their toes, and the view of the hotel and being one with nature. As humans, I
think it is plausible to want to reiterate moments or images that were are emotionally
and/or physically attached to. We want others to feel what we felt and to see
what we saw. However, it is unnecessary to continue replaying the same scenes.

Overall, the author did a great job at making clear relatable
points, and had great use of colorful words that ultimately drew the reader into
the memoir.

Critique of Audition Time:

Once again, what makes this memoir successful is that it is relatable.
While not all of us had to audition to get accepted to a school, we all had to
apply and either face rejection or acceptation. That in itself is a pretty nerve-racking
and intimidating experience. Then you add deciding your major and it’s a whole
other level of both excitement and “oh my gosh, what the HECK AM I GOING TO FOR
THE REST OF MY LIFE?!?!” We’ve all been there a time or two, too!

What initially drew me into the story was the “click,
delete, click, delete.” I could hear the click of a mouse making these actions.
There was also humor in it: “a freshman move, right?” Overall, this memoir was successful
because it was relatable and humorous.

he one thing that I might suggest is
that you add in what major you decided to go with. From the memoir, I think you
either went into advertising or English, but I don’t think you actually say
what you decided to major in. As a reader, this is a question that I am left
wanting to know the answer, because you spend a great deal of the memoir
talking about this topic.